Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development: A Structured Critical Review of Applications, Benefits, Risks and Governance Priorities

Abstract This structured critical literature review examines the multidimensional role of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing global sustainability and supporting progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Drawing on multidisciplinary academic and institutional literature, the review critically synthesises AI applications, sustainability benefits, implementation challenges and associated risks. Particular attention is given to applications in energy management, agriculture, environmental monitoring, smart cities, circular economy practices and industrial processes, alongside their potential contributions to resource efficiency, decarbonisation and environmental resilience. The analysis also considers the ecological footprint of AI technologies, including energy consumption, carbon emissions, water requirements and electronic waste, together with data-related, algorithmic, socioeconomic and ethical concerns. These interconnected challenges are examined through the concept of the AI Green Paradox and an exploratory multidimensional risk-prioritisation framework incorporating indicative likelihood and severity assessments. The review highlights the importance of distinguishing improvements in technological performance from independently demonstrated sustainability outcomes, particularly where evidence is limited by differences in research methodologies, geographical contexts and implementation conditions. Responsible governance, Green AI development, international cooperation, technological accessibility and capacity building are identified as important priorities for supporting sustainable and equitable AI implementation. Overall, the review argues that AI's contribution to sustainable development depends not only on its technological capabilities but also on the effective management of its environmental and societal consequences.